fathom clads japanese hair salon in façade of galvanized iron folding screens

fathom has clad the façade of ‘créde hair’s inokuchi’ in nishi-ku, hiroshima, japan, in a façade of folding screens made of galvanized iron. the hair salon occupies the ground level of a long and narrow building, while its design, based on a single straight line, encourages a dynamic, flowing line of sight that makes it feel ‘like a ray of light unleashed in the area’. located in a dense residential neighborhood populated by many young families, the project is complete with a dedicated kids room at the front, where parents can leave their children while getting a haircut.all images by tatsuya tabii

in order to positively grasp the characteristics of the long and narrow space, fathom decided to create a long, narrow path from the entrance to the back of the building in order to emphasize its linear nature. this path guides customers towards the different areas of the hair salon. at the right side of the entrance, a surface that transforms into serve different functions extends from the exterior to the interior of the space, enhancing the sense of continuity. this surface changes from a waiting sofa, to a consultation table, a reception counter, and a cloakroom.

due to the many young families living in the area, fathom decided to create a special kids room for children to play while their parents are getting a haircut. instead of placing it in the back of the space, which usually ensures more privacy, the japanese architecture studio decided to place it in the foreground instead, so that customers can know this special place exists in the first place. in order to secure enough privacy, a façade of folding screens made of galvanized iron was installed at the front.

the folding screens allow the hair salon owner to control the level of privacy for the interior, as they can be adjusted in four different positions: the higher the folding position, the narrower the folding area and the larger the opening. in front of the façade, a skeleton grid frame incorporates an acrylic lighting box with the salon’s logo, surrounded by growing plants. a circline fluorescent lamp has been fitted into the acrylic box, making the logo stand out and appear to emerge through the circular glowing line.